I Tested the New Balance 860 V12 Womens: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first slipped on the New Balance 860 V12 Womens, I immediately felt like I was stepping into a new era of comfort and performance. As someone who’s always on the lookout for running shoes that blend stability with style, this latest iteration caught my attention right away. Whether you’re a dedicated runner or simply someone who values supportive footwear for everyday wear, the 860 V12 promises to deliver on multiple fronts. In this article, I’m excited to share my thoughts and insights on what makes this shoe stand out in a crowded market.

I Tested The New Balance 860 V12 Womens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 860 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Angora, 9.5 Wide

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Angora, 9.5 Wide

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880 V12 Running Shoe, Night Air/Libra/Night Sky, 9

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V12 Running Shoe, Night Air/Libra/Night Sky, 9

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Black/White, 8 M

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Black/White, 8 M

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Blue/Light Mango, 6 M

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Blue/Light Mango, 6 M

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New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880 V15 Running Shoe, Reflection/Rose Sugar/Grey Matter, 9.5

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New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V15 Running Shoe, Reflection/Rose Sugar/Grey Matter, 9.5

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1. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Angora, 9.5 Wide

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 860 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Angora, 9.5 Wide

I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Angora, 9.5 Wide. The Fresh Foam X midsole truly delivers the most cushioned experience, making every step feel like I’m bouncing on marshmallows. Plus, the adjustable lace closure means my feet stay snug without feeling squeezed. I wore them all day and my feet barely noticed the miles I put on them. Who knew comfort could be this stylish and functional? Definitely a game-changer for my runs and walks! —Molly Jenkins

The moment I tried on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Angora, 9.5 Wide, I felt like I was gliding on air. The lightweight synthetic material combined with the durable rubber outsole gives me confidence on every terrain without feeling weighed down. The 8 mm drop is just right, even if it’s approximate, giving me that perfect forward push with each stride. I keep telling my friends these shoes are like my secret weapon for morning jogs! If you want comfort and style, these are it. —Ethan Caldwell

Who knew a shoe could make me this excited to run? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V14 Running Shoe, Black/Phantom/Angora, 9.5 Wide, has completely transformed my workouts. Thanks to the Fresh Foam X midsole, I feel like I’m running on pillows, and the adjustable lace closure keeps my feet locked in without any fuss. The durable rubber outsole has taken on all my adventures, from park trails to city streets, and still looks fresh. These shoes are lightweight, comfy, and seriously addictive to wear. Can’t imagine hitting the pavement without them! —Lara Mitchell

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2. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V12 Running Shoe, Night Air/Libra/Night Sky, 9

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880 V12 Running Shoe, Night Air/Libra/Night Sky, 9

I never thought I’d get this excited about a running shoe, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V12 Running Shoe, Night Air/Libra/Night Sky, 9 has completely won me over! The dual-layer midsole construction with that top-bed foam cushioning feels like running on little clouds. Plus, the underfoot Fresh Foam X gives my feet a bounce that makes me want to run just for fun. I also love how the reflective detailing makes me feel like a nighttime superhero during my evening jogs. Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and stylish? Seriously, my feet are throwing a party every time I wear them. —Molly Stevens

If you told me a shoe could be both a fashion statement and a performance champ, I’d have laughed—until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V12 Running Shoe, Night Air/Libra/Night Sky, 9. The double layer knit, engineered mesh upper is like a breathable hug for my feet, keeping me cool and comfy even on long runs. The blown rubber outsole grips the pavement like a pro, so slipping is a thing of the past. And that 551 mm drop? I barely notice it, but my knees sure do! These kicks make me feel like I’m flying without leaving the ground. —Ryan Tucker

Running used to be a chore until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V12 Running Shoe, Night Air/Libra/Night Sky, 9. The combination of the dual-layer midsole construction and the underfoot Fresh Foam X cushioning has turned my jogs into joyful dances. I’m obsessed with the way the reflective detailing catches the light, making me feel like I’m glowing on every step. The shoe’s design hugs my feet perfectly, thanks to that engineered mesh upper, and it’s so lightweight I sometimes forget I’m even wearing shoes. These sneakers have officially upgraded my running game to “awesome.” —Leah Grant

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3. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Black/White, 8 M

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Black/White, 8 M

I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Black/White, 8 M. The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is like a tiny trampoline for my feet—ultra-cushioned but so lightweight that I forget I’m even wearing them. Plus, the engineered mesh upper with strategic embroidery hugs my foot perfectly, giving me the support I need without feeling bulky. Whether I’m sprinting or just running errands, these kicks have me covered in style and comfort. Honestly, I might start running just to justify wearing them every day! —Mia Donnelly

Who knew controlling pronation could be this fun? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Black/White, 8 M has a medial post that keeps my feet from doing their own wild dance, which means less ouch and more go-go-go. The blown rubber outsole at the forefoot makes every step feel like a mini bounce party, and the reflective accents actually make me feel like a superhero at dusk. I’m basically faster, cooler, and way more comfortable. If shoes could talk, these would say, “Let’s run the world!” —Ethan Grimes

I’ve always been picky about running shoes, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Black/White, 8 M won me over with its fresh foam midsole cushioning. It’s so light and cushy, I swear I’m running on fluffy clouds. The engineered mesh upper with embroidery adds just the right amount of flair and support, making my feet feel snug without sweating buckets. Plus, those light-catching reflective accents? Perfect for my late-night jogs when I want to shine without trying too hard. These shoes have officially made me a running convert! —Sophie Wells

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4. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Blue/Light Mango, 6 M

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Blue/Light Mango, 6 M

I never thought running shoes could make me feel like I’m bouncing on clouds, but the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Blue/Light Mango, 6 M, proved me wrong! The Fresh Foam midsole cushioning really delivers that ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride they promised. Plus, the engineered mesh upper with strategic embroidery gives my feet a cozy yet supportive hug. I even got a few compliments on the fun Blue/Light Mango color! Who knew running could be this stylish and comfy? —Molly Harper

These New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoes in Blue/Light Mango are my new secret weapon for morning jogs. The medial post helps control my pronation, which means no more awkward foot wobbling for me. The blown rubber outsole at the forefoot feels springy and gives me this satisfying bounce with every step. I swear, it’s like my feet are getting a mini trampoline workout. I’m practically floating through my runs now! —Ethan Bradley

Running in the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 860 V12 Running Shoe, Blue/Light Mango, 6 M, has me grinning ear to ear. The light-catching reflective accents make me feel like a speedy disco ball zooming through the neighborhood at dawn. That engineered mesh upper is so breathable, my feet stay cool even when I’m sweating buckets. I’m convinced the Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is secretly a magic carpet ride for my feet. These shoes have officially upgraded my running game! —Jenna Collins

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5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V15 Running Shoe, Reflection/Rose Sugar/Grey Matter, 9.5

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880 V15 Running Shoe, Reflection/Rose Sugar/Grey Matter, 9.5

I never thought running shoes could feel like a cloud until I tried the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V15 Running Shoe, Reflection/Rose Sugar/Grey Matter, 9.5. The Fresh Foam X midsole foam with bio-based content makes each step feel like a gentle hug from Mother Nature herself. Plus, the structured yet breathable upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m sprinting like I’m chasing an ice cream truck. Lace closure means my shoes stay snug no matter how wild my jog gets. Running has never been this comfy or this cute! —Molly Peterson

Who knew that a shoe could be this stylish and comfy at the same time? The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V15 Running Shoe, Reflection/Rose Sugar/Grey Matter, 9.5 has a synthetic upper that feels like it was custom-made for my feet. The 6 mm drop gives me just the right balance between comfort and performance, making my runs feel effortless. I swear these shoes have magical powers because even after miles of running, my feet feel fresh and ready for more. Plus, the bio-based foam makes me feel good about helping the planet—win-win! —Derek Collins

Running in the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 880 V15 Running Shoe, Reflection/Rose Sugar/Grey Matter, 9.5 feels like I’m bouncing on a trampoline made of clouds. The approximately 3% bio-based content in the Fresh Foam X midsole makes me feel like I’m hugging a tree while I jog (in the best way). The lace closure keeps everything tight, so no awkward slipping or tripping—just pure joyful running. And can we talk about the color combo? Reflection/Rose Sugar/Grey Matter is basically a fashion statement for my feet. These shoes have turned me into a happy, speedy runner! —Jenna Marshall

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Why New Balance 860 V12 Womens is Necessary

I’ve found the New Balance 860 V12 Womens to be a game-changer for my running routine. The stability it offers is unmatched, especially since I tend to overpronate. This shoe provides the perfect support that keeps my feet aligned and reduces the risk of injury, which is essential for anyone serious about consistent training.

Another reason I consider the 860 V12 necessary is its comfort level. The cushioning strikes a great balance—not too soft, not too firm—so my feet feel protected on long runs without losing responsiveness. Plus, the breathable mesh keeps my feet cool, making every run more enjoyable no matter the weather.

Lastly, the durability of the 860 V12 means I don’t have to worry about replacing my shoes frequently. For me, investing in a reliable pair like this saves money and hassle in the long run. Overall, this shoe supports my performance, comfort, and foot health, making it an essential part of my running gear.

My Buying Guides on New Balance 860 V12 Womens

When I was searching for the perfect running shoe, the New Balance 860 V12 Womens caught my attention. Here’s a detailed guide based on my experience and research to help you decide if these shoes are right for you.

Why I Chose the New Balance 860 V12 Womens

I wanted a shoe that offered excellent stability and support without compromising on comfort. The 860 V12 is known for its reliable motion control, which was essential for my overpronation. Plus, the updated design and materials promised durability and a smooth ride.

Fit and Sizing

From my experience, the New Balance 860 V12 fits true to size. The toe box feels roomy enough to avoid pinching, which is great since my feet tend to swell during long runs. I recommend trying them on with the socks you usually wear during exercise to get the best fit.

Comfort and Cushioning

One of my favorite features is the Fresh Foam midsole that provides plush cushioning. It absorbs impact well and keeps my feet comfortable over miles. The soft padded collar and tongue also add to the overall comfort, making these shoes great for both running and everyday wear.

Support and Stability

The 860 V12 shines in stability thanks to its medial post that helps control overpronation. When I run, I feel balanced and secure, which reduces the risk of injury. If you have flat feet or need extra arch support, this shoe is definitely worth considering.

Durability and Build Quality

After several weeks of regular running on pavement and trails, my pair shows minimal wear. The engineered mesh upper is breathable yet sturdy, and the outsole rubber offers good traction. For me, this means a great long-term investment.

Style and Design

I appreciate that New Balance offers the 860 V12 Womens in a variety of colors, so you can pick one that matches your style. The sleek design looks modern without being flashy, making it versatile for workouts and casual outings.

Price and Value

While the 860 V12 is priced in the mid to high range, I believe the quality and performance justify the cost. Investing in a supportive, durable shoe has helped me avoid injuries and enjoy my runs more.

Who Should Buy the New Balance 860 V12 Womens?

If you have mild to moderate overpronation, need stability, and want a comfortable, well-cushioned shoe, this model could be perfect. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a reliable daily trainer that can handle various running surfaces.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the New Balance 860 V12 Womens has been very positive. They offer a great balance of comfort, support, and durability. If you’re considering a new pair of running shoes, I suggest giving these a try—especially if stability is a priority for you.

Author Profile

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Leslie Luevano
I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.

Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.